Looking to discover Norway’s breathtaking Fjords? Fjords are long, narrow inlets of water surrounded by steep cliffs and mountains. Norway is home to over 1,700 of them, which can be overwhelming for a first-time traveller. To help you get to the heart of Norway’s Fjord culture, we’ve put together a list of 5 of our favourite Fjords to visit for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re looking for dramatic scenery, charming villages, or outdoor adventures, the fjords have something to offer everyone.
1. Geirangerfjord: The world-famous one
Geirangerfjord is perhaps the most famous fjord in Norway. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its stunning beauty, surrounded by steep mountains, waterfalls, and lush green forests.
One of the most famous attractions in the area are the Seven Sisters waterfalls- a collection of seven separate falls that cascade down the mountainside into the fjord. You can see them from above, by visiting a viewpoint from Norway’s scenic Eagle Road. Or, you can get up close to the base of the falls by going on a boat tour.
Also a must-visit during your time there is the Geiranger Skywalk. This iconic viewing platform juts out from the mountainside, offering panoramic views of the fjord and the surrounding landscape.
Other popular activities in the area include kayaking, hiking, and fishing for fresh salmon or trout.
Overall, Geirangerfjord is a perfect introduction to the heart of Norway’s fjord-land.
2. Sognefjord: The most dramatic one
Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, stretching over 200 kilometres inland. It’s located in western Norway and features dramatic landscapes of glaciers, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains.
As well as the beautiful scenery, Sogenfjord is also home to beautiful picturesque villages. We recommend visiting the charming villages of Balestrand, Flåm, and Aurland for a taste of the local culture. Make sure to also check out the local restaurants, offering delicious cured meats, brown cheeses and craft beer.
As with most fjords, the best way to explore Sognefjord is by cruise. But, the area is also a popular hiking destination. In the summer, you can take on the famous Aurlandsdalen Valley trail, which runs from Geiteryggen to Vassbygdi, to fully immerse yourself in the fjord scenery!
3. Hardangerfjord: The one with the charming fruit farms
Hardangerfjord is located on the west coast of Norway and is the fourth-longest fjord in the country. The fjord is famous for its scenic fruit farms, charming villages, and impressive waterfalls.
Visiting Hardangerfjord, make sure to stop by one of the local farms producing cherries, apples, and pears. You will get to learn about the fruit production process and also taste the delicious fruits!
Also, a must-see is the Hardangerfjord Bridge- a suspension bridge that spans over 1,300 meters, offering stunning views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.
Finally, if you have a car, make sure to follow the Hardanger National Tourist Route, which is one of the most scenic routes in Norway.
4. Nærøyfjord: The most picturesque one
Nærøyfjord is considered one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway and is actually a branch of the larger Sognefjord. The fjord is known for its rugged and unspoiled natural beauty. Indeed, the area around the fjord is sparsely populated with only a few small villages and farms surrounding it.
It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, porpoises, and eagles, and the waters are rich in salmon and trout. So, wildlife-spotting tours and fishing excursions are very popular amongst visitors.
Other key attractions in the area include the village of Gudvangen, the waterfall Kjelsfossen, and the mountains of Bakkanosi and Jordalsnuten.
5. Lysefjord: The one with the iconic landmarks
Located in southwestern Norway, Lysefjord is home to two of the most iconic landmarks in Norway.
Firstly, it is home to the Preikestolen, also known as the Pulpit Rock. You can reach this iconic rock formation by going on an 8km round-trip hike, starting from the Preikestolen Mountain Lodge. Alternatively, you can visit Preikestolen by booking a tour which takes you there by bus, or by boat to see it from below.
Secondly, the fjord is also home to Kjeragbolten: the famous boulder lodged between two cliffs. The reach the boulder you need to take on a 10km round-trip hike. While the trail can be challenging, the gorgeous views on top make it absolutely worth it.
Some other popular things to do in the area are rock climbing, kayaking, and fishing. We also recommend exploring the nearby villages for an authentic taste of the local culture. Don’t miss out on visiting Flørli, which is home to the world’s longest wooden staircase with 4,444 steps.
